“We must have recourse to something else besides punishment.”
It will be observed that the use of besides in this section differs from the use of than in the preceding discussion. “Other... than” is exclusive of those mentioned; whereas, “other... besides” includes those mentioned.
Other
“Iron is more useful than all the metals.” The faultiness of this sentence becomes apparent when we remember that iron itself is a metal and is included in the word metals, which forms one side of the comparison. In short, “Iron is more useful than iron together with all the other metals.” This statement is absurd. The sentence should, therefore, read, “Iron is more useful than all the other metals.”
“The Washington monument is higher than any monument in America.” Since it is in America, and as it cannot be higher than itself, the sentence is made correct by adding the word other; as, “The Washington monument is higher than any other monument in America.”
“This book, which I have just finished, is superior to any work on the subject that I have yet seen.” Say “to any other work.”
“Of all other creatures, man is the most highly endowed.” Say “of all creatures,” etc.
“No general was ever so beloved by his soldiers.” Say “No other general,” etc.
“Nothing delights him so much as a storm at sea.” “Nothing else delights him,” etc.
One’s, His